Only Snyder knows KSU QB

Bill Snyder knows who his starting quarterback will be when Kansas State opens its season Saturday against Massachusetts.

But, for now, he isn't telling.

"We have a decision," Snyder said during Monday's Big 12 conference call. "We will announce it (Tuesday) at the press conference."

Junior Carson Coffman is considered the likely choice, though South Florida transfer Grant Gregory gained ground during training camp.

Snyder has selected a starter, but that doesn't mean the battle is over. As in the past, Snyder said he will give the No. 2 quarterback ample opportunity to win the starting job.

"It's just never been our philosophy to say, 'You're it for the year,' " Snyder said. "What you would like to have happen is the youngster accept the responsibility of being No.1 and maintain the position throughout the course of the year. That would be the hope. But like every other position, we want to make sure it remains competitive."

Snyder hasn't been afraid to rotate quarterbacks in the past. Marc Dunn began the 2002 season as the starter but eventually was unseated by Ell Roberson, and Snyder used a revolving cast of quarterbacks in 2004 and 2005.

"Whoever the No. 2 quarterback is going into this game, we want him to understand if he continues to improve he has the opportunity to challenge for the No. 1 spot," Snyder said. "Whoever it is that goes on the field on Saturday certainly will have to perform well enough to retain the position."

Gregory is considered the more athletic of the two quarterbacks, but Coffman had a head start on mastering Snyder's offense. Gregory, a sixth-year senior, didn't join the team until after spring drills.

"Obviously, it's much more difficult than it would be for someone who's been in the program since we started and has gone through spring with us," Snyder said.